"Russia's invasion was not unexpected. For months, President Vladimir Putin had been amassing his military along the Russian-Ukrainian border. By February, 190,000 troops stood ready to invade. For Putin, giving that command would be the first step in his long-sought goal of bringing Ukraine back under Russian influence. Ukrainians are fiercely loyal to their president and their country, and have shown remarkable courage in opposing the Russian invasion. Multiplied by thousands of like-minded Ukrainian citizens, such determination has made Putin's goal more difficult and its outcome less certain"-- Provided by publisher.

Important events in Russia's war on Ukraine -- An unprovoked attack -- Russia and Ukraine: A Troubled History -- Russia Invades Ukraine -- Ukraine Fights Back -- Humanitarian Tragedies of the War -- The World Reacts